[Article] B.C.’s Rural Communities Need More From Health Authorities: UBC Prof

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Dr. Jude Kornelsen says transparency, communication needed to improve trust, effectiveness

Dr. Jude Kornelsen is looking to change the way health authorities in B.C. operate in rural settings.

The co-director of the Centre for Rural Health Research at UBC has completed a number of studies looking at ways to improve rural health care, and found that many people in rural communities have lost trust in their health authorities.

“So many people wrote back and said that they do not have engagement with the health authority anymore. They cannot figure out who to talk to when they have suggestions or solutions,” Kornelsen said about a 2020-2021 study she led.

The Northern Health Authority has faced sharp criticism on Prince Rupert’s social media channels, as recent closures to the city’s emergency room has created a deep sense of frustration among many residents.